Classic Ploughman’s Lunch: A Simple And Satisfying Meal

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The humble ploughman’s lunch, a classic British repast, is a testament to the simplicity and satisfaction of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Today, we elevate this timeless dish, infusing it with flavors from around the globe. The result? A culinary adventure that pays homage to tradition while embracing innovation.

Ingredients:

For the Ploughman’s Base:

  • 1 loaf of crusty sourdough bread, sliced
  • 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, aged and grated
  • 1 pound creamy brie, sliced
  • 1 pound assorted cured meats (e.g., prosciutto, salami, chorizo)
  • 1 pound fresh grapes, halved
  • 1 pint mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • 1 bunch fresh mint, chopped
  • For the Global Infusion:
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • Pinch of saffron threads
  • 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

  • The Hobbit: Ploughman’s Lunch

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    Preparation:

    1. Assemble the Ploughman’s Base:

  • Arrange the sliced sourdough bread on a large platter.
  • Top with generous portions of grated cheddar and sliced brie.
  • Artfully distribute the cured meats, grapes, and berries across the platter.
  • Sprinkle with fresh mint.

  • 2. Create the Global Infusion:

  • In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, lemon zest, cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron. Whisk until smooth.
  • In another bowl, toss together pistachios, cranberries, and feta cheese.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes to create a vibrant dressing.

  • 3. Plate and Serve:

  • Drizzle the yogurt mixture over the cheese and meats.
  • Scatter the pistachio-cranberry-feta mixture over the platter.
  • Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the entire dish.
  • Serve immediately, with additional bread slices on the side.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes

    Serving Suggestions:

    Elevate the Experience: Present the dish on a rustic wooden board or a sleek slate platter.

  • Pair with Perfection: Serve with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a robust red wine.
  • Embrace the Seasons: Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into the dish, such as figs, pears, or roasted root vegetables.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different cheeses, meats, and herbs to customize the dish to your taste.

  • This reimagined ploughman’s lunch is a global feast, a celebration of diverse culinary traditions. It is a testament to the power of food to connect cultures and inspire creativity. As we savor each bite, we embark on a culinary journey, exploring the flavors of the world, one plate at a time.